Catching up with Big Shane

Ivan McDowell, Southeast/Mid-South Editor

July 3, 2008 - Recent Alabama A&M signee Shane Burrell has made the short pilgrimage from Sound Doctrine Christian Academy in North Georgia to the beautiful Huntsville, Alabama campus. About a three and a half hour trip, Burrell has gotten a jumpstart on his education and acclimation to college life with his enrollment in summer school.

“I like the city of Huntsville a lot,” opined the Southern California native.

“It’s is a slower pace than what I’m used to, but that’s a good thing.”

California native Shane Burrell provides Alabama A&M with an imposing offensive threat in the paint.

Making that transition from prep school to the rigors of a major university and Division-I basketball is crucial to Shane’s advancement as player and a person.

“It has been adjustment because you’re on your own, so you have to manage your time wisely.”

“It is making me a better man already.”

The quicker Burrell gets accustomed to campus life and the rigors of academia the better it will be for Coach Vann Pettaway and the Bulldog basketball family. A&M lost two-time SWAC Defensive Player of the Year Mickell Gladness and his shot blocking prowess at the center position.

Although not the defensive force Gladness was, Burrell brings a more adept offensive repertoire to the position. The 6-foot-8, 285-pound post man combines nimble footwork, deft passing skills and a soft touch around the basket.

The competition will be a lot stiffer in the Southwestern Athletic Conference; a fact Burrell is well aware of, but is not deterred by.

“I’ve got lofty goals for myself and my team. I want to become the best player not only at A&M, but in the conference.”

“I want to become a leader for my team on and off the floor. I know the competition will be intense in the SWAC, but I feel I’m up for the challenge,” remarked Big Shane, who averaged 16 points, nine rebounds and six assists in his final year at SDCA.

Shane is certainly capable of putting up big numbers, as witnessed by his 29 points explosion versus Mississippi Elite. However, Burrell excels when he uses his strong frame to impose his will down low. He also flourishes in the half court; either scoring in the post or utilizing his ability to pass out of double teams and finding the open man.